Paul Rodriguez is going to war with the Burbank Police Department … bracing for an ugly legal battle over his recent arrest for drug possession, TMZ has learned.

The legendary actor-comedian and Burbank law enforcement sources traded accusations in separate statements to TMZ, turning Paul’s misdemeanor drug possession case into a wild drama.

On Friday night, Paul was arrested with a female friend after cops pulled them over — she was driving, he was in the passenger seat — and conducted a search, eventually finding drugs in the woman’s purse. Paul told TMZ the cop slapped him — and Paul’s attorney, Bobby Samini, later said the officer’s actions constituted a civil rights violation.

As for Rodriguez, Samini returned fire, telling TMZ … “The assertion that Mr. Rodriguez was in possession of any controlled substance is absolutely false. Statements by anonymous sources that to the contrary are solely intended to defame Mr. Rodriguez are cowardly and irresponsible.”

Samini went on … “Mr. Rodriguez will defend these allegations and take all appropriate legal action against those responsible. Aside from Mr. Rodriguez’s storied career in Hollywood, he is a retired United States Air Force veteran. He served this Country honorably and held the highest levels of security clearance.”

Samini continued … “Although he fully cooperated with law enforcement, he was forcibly removed from the vehicle, arrested, and subsequently strip-searched. No controlled substances were found in his possession or on his person. This conduct was not intended to protect and serve the community but intended to humiliate and demean Mr. Rodriguez.”

Val Kilmer’s heartbreaking death shocked everyone — especially the organizers of the Beverly Hills Film Festival, who were expecting him to attend right when news of his passing broke.

Nino Simone, the founder and president of the festival, expressed his shock Wednesday morning — explaining it was only over the weekend that they confirmed Val’s attendance for the premiere of “American Badass: A Michael Madsen Retrospective” on Tuesday night.

Nino said Val was thrilled to come out and support his friend Michael … but when it was time for Val’s 7:30 PM red carpet arrival, organizers were on the phone trying to reach his driver.

Simone explained the news of Kilmer’s death broke at the exact same time, which was unbelievable and heartbreaking.

Clearly, Val is still loved and adored in Hollywood, with tons of celebs sharing heartfelt tributes after his daughter Mercedes confirmed he died Tuesday in L.A. due to complications from pneumonia.

Travis Kelce got introduced to the newest member of the Kelce crew in an adorable way this week … with Jason and Kylie Kelce brining their fourth child on a podcast for a special introduction!!

The cute moment was shared on the latest edition of the “New Heights” podcast … with the audience and the Chiefs star tight end getting a look at the three-day-old Finnley “Finn” Anne Kelce.

Travis learned of his niece’s name on the spot … and let them know he was a big fan.

“There’s a moment right when you see any baby I feel like that’s just overwhelming,” Jason said.

After announcing they were expecting to welcome a fourth back in November 2024 … Kylie recently said on her own “Not Gonna Lie” podcast she was expecting any day. Now that the baby is here, expect the media tour to continue on her platform later this week.